What trade mark class is printed merchandise?
In the UK, printed merchandise usually goes in class 25, class 21 and class 16. Below: the class, example terms from the 2026 Nice list, the mistakes that cause objections, and when a second class is worth it.
Class 25
Printed T-shirts and caps are clothing: class 25. Class heading: Clothing, footwear, headwear.
Example terms (Nice list, 2026):
- clothing
- headwear
Class 21
Mugs and bottles are class 21. Class heading: Household or kitchen utensils and containers; cookware and tableware, except forks, knives and spoons; combs and sponges.
Example terms (Nice list, 2026):
- mugs
- cups
- drinking bottles for sports
Class 16
Stickers, posters and cards are class 16. Class heading: Paper and cardboard; printed matter; bookbinding material.
Example terms (Nice list, 2026):
- stickers [stationery]
- posters
- greeting cards
- calendars
When we file, every term is picked from UKIPO's pre-approved list, so the wording itself does not draw an objection. Your mark is protected only for the terms you list.
Common mistakes
- Filing every merchandise class at once. Up to 3 classes cost £60 each at UKIPO; choose the items that carry most of your sales.
- Thinking a design printed on a T-shirt needs a trade mark. A trade mark protects the brand name, not the artwork.
When a second class makes sense
Start with the class that sells most, usually 25, and add 21 or 16 if those items carry the brand.
UKIPO charges £205 online for the first class and £60 for each extra class.
Price with us: £374 all-in for one class (our fee £169 + the £205 UKIPO fee). Extra classes: £135 each (our £75 + UKIPO's £60), up to 3 classes; for 4 or more we quote. You pay first; if our check says High risk and you decide to stop, we refund everything except £39.
Can you register your name?
Send us the name and what you sell. We look at the UK register for identical and similar marks and email you the result, usually within 1 working day. Free, no obligation.
Which class is printed merchandise in?
Usually class 25, class 21 and class 16. The exact class depends on the goods or services you list.
Can I add a class later?
No. Once an application is submitted you cannot add goods, services or classes. A new class means a new application and a new fee.
How much does it cost?
UKIPO charges £205 online for one class and £60 for each extra class. With Markherald it is £374 all-in for one class.
- gov.uk, Before you apply (classes and terms)
- Nice Classification, 13th edition (version 2026, in force 1 January 2026), WIPO: class headings and the alphabetical list of goods and services.
- gov.uk, Apply to register a trade mark (£205 online for one class, £60 per extra class).
- UKIPO online application, review page (seen 11 Nov 2026): no changes to the mark and no added goods or services after you submit.
Checked 11 November 2026. We are a private filing service, not UKIPO, and this is general information, not legal advice.